The original contract authorization was $52.2 million, based on the preliminary design. The revised contract amount covers improvements to the project's design and scope and also provides for an additional seven percent contingency that could be used to cover unforeseen site conditions along the project route that may arise during construction. The revised contract amount will be paid from existing project contingency funds.

The improvements, which include new streetscapes, bicycle lanes and related amenities, will make the streetcar more convenient and accessible to the riding public when it's completed next year.

Construction on the 2.7-mile transit loop in Downtown Atlanta is well underway. The vote by the board is the culmination of recent negotiations between URS and the local project sponsors, including MARTA, the city of Atlanta and the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District. Since its inception, MARTA has served as technical advisor and designated grant recipient for $47.6 million in project funding awarded by U.S. Department of Transportation in 2010.

"We continue to work closely and effectively with our partners at City Hall and the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District to ensure that we realize the full potential of this project," said Frederick Daniels Jr., chairman of the MARTA board. "The Streetcar will help reinvigorate the heart of Atlanta and add vitality to the historic Auburn Avenue corridor. It will also attract new riders to MARTA, while maximizing the significant financial investment from our local and national partners."